Hashim Claims INEC Cannot Exclude Him from 2027 Election

Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, the presidential candidate of the Accord Party, stated that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cannot exclude him from the 2027 presidential election. He emphasized that the commission does not have the final authority in disputes over candidacy, particularly as his case is currently pending judgment in court.

Hashim was excluded from INEC's final list of presidential candidates published recently. He has filed a case in the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking recognition as Accord's presidential candidate following his victory in the party's primary on May 30, 2026.

Hashim argues that his exclusion does not negate his lawful right to contest, asserting that the courts hold the adjudicatory power in such matters. He expressed confidence in the judicial process and criticized INEC's administrative actions as insufficient to determine candidacy disputes.

Hashim also suggested that his emergence as a candidate has caused discomfort among powerful political interests.